She was everything to me, musically & otherwise.
I used to have a life-size poster of her that I had up in a university apartment, in our livingroom. I lived with three guys that used to throw darts at her when I was not home, all their friends would partake. This is over thirty years ago & one told me last year he was wrong and time has given clarity on her life.
(The Disboard edit: I realize she was far from perfect.)
Although her radio hits were often talked about The Lion and the Cobra - her debut - was paramount to coming to age for me, so to speak. Played that album on crazy repeat, still do. And it was a time where one had albums, tapes and CDs. The crossover period.
And on her more popular second album, Black Boys on Mopeds & Three Babies are my favourites.
Rest in Peace has never felt so valid.
So much for one single life to endure. Thank you for everything Sinead.